Ventrac MK960 Owner's manual

Brand: Ventrac

Model: MK960

Category: Lawnmowers

Type: Owner's manual

Operator’s Manual

& Parts Drawings

Wide Area Mower

VENTRAC.COM

MK960

Revised 04/28/20

09.10163 Rev. 03

Original Operator’s Manual

To the Owner

Contact Information and Product Identication

If you need to contact an authorized Ventrac dealer for information on servicing your product,

always provide the product model and serial numbers.

Please ll in the following information for future reference. See the picture(s) below to nd the

location of the identication numbers. Record them in the spaces provided.

Date of Purchase: __________________________________________________________________

Dealer: ___________________________________________________________________________

Dealer Address: ____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

Dealer Phone Number: ______________________________________________________________

Dealer Fax Number: ________________________________________________________________

Model # (A): ___________________________

Serial # (B): ____________________________

Afx Part/Serial Number label here.

Venture Products Inc. reserves the right to make changes

in design or specications without obligation to make like

changes on previously manufactured products.

500 Venture Drive

Orrville Oh 44667

www.ventrac.com

View all manuals

Visit ventrac.com/manuals

for the latest version of this

operator’s manual.

A downloadable parts manual

is also available.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION PAGE 5

Product Description ................................................................................................................................ 5

Why Do I Need an Operator’s Manual? .................................................................................................5

Using Your Manual .................................................................................................................................6

Manual Glossary ....................................................................................................................................6

SAFETY PAGE 7

Safety Decals .........................................................................................................................................7

General Safety Procedures .................................................................................................................... 9

Training Required ...................................................................................................................................9

Personal Protective Equipment Requirements ......................................................................................9

Operation Safety ....................................................................................................................................9

Preventing Accidents ............................................................................................................................10

Keep Riders O ....................................................................................................................................10

Operating On Slopes ............................................................................................................................ 11

Roadway Safety ................................................................................................................................... 11

Truck Or Trailer Transport .................................................................................................................... 11

Maintenance .........................................................................................................................................12

Fuel Safety ...........................................................................................................................................12

Hydraulic Safety ...................................................................................................................................13

Cutting Unit Safety ...............................................................................................................................14

Optional Hydraulic Flip Up Kit Safety ...................................................................................................14

OPERATIONAL CONTROLS PAGE 15

Operational Control Locations ..............................................................................................................15

Height Adjustment Handles (A) ............................................................................................................15

Main Belt Tension Handle (B) ...............................................................................................................15

Outer Belt Tension Springs (C) ............................................................................................................15

Primary SDLA Control Lever ................................................................................................................15

Secondary SDLA Control Lever ...........................................................................................................15

Weight Transfer .................................................................................................................................... 15

GENERAL OPERATION PAGE 16

Daily Inspection .................................................................................................................................... 16

Attaching ..............................................................................................................................................16

Detaching .............................................................................................................................................16

Mowing and Operating Procedure .......................................................................................................16

Transport of Mower ..............................................................................................................................17

Cutting Height Adjustment ....................................................................................................................17

SERVICE PAGE 18

Cleaning and General Maintenance.....................................................................................................18

Deck Cover Removal and Installation ..................................................................................................18

Deck Flip Up Procedure (Service Position) .......................................................................................... 18

Optional Hydraulic Flip Up Procedure .................................................................................................. 19

Mower Blade Inspection/Replacement .................................................................................................20

Mower Blade Sharpening ..................................................................................................................... 20

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Belt Inspection ......................................................................................................................................20

Attachment Belt Replacement ..............................................................................................................20

Main Deck Belt Replacement ............................................................................................................... 20

Mid Left Spindle Belt Replacement ......................................................................................................21

Right Spindle Belt Replacement ..........................................................................................................21

Main Deck Belt Tension Adjustment ..................................................................................................... 22

Spindle Belt Tension Adjustment .......................................................................................................... 22

Deck Leveling Procedure .....................................................................................................................22

Tire Pressure ........................................................................................................................................ 22

Lubrication Locations ...........................................................................................................................23

Storage .................................................................................................................................................23

Maintenance Schedule .........................................................................................................................24

Maintenance Checklist .........................................................................................................................24

SPECIFICATIONS PAGE 25

Dimensions ..........................................................................................................................................25

Features ...............................................................................................................................................25

PARTS PAGE 26

Main Frame & Front Anti-Scalp Rollers ................................................................................................ 26

Carrier Frames & Wheels .....................................................................................................................28

Right Carrier Rockers & Link ................................................................................................................30

Left Carrier Rockers & Link ..................................................................................................................32

Rear Roller ...........................................................................................................................................34

Rear Discharge Belting & End Guards .................................................................................................36

Hitch Arms ............................................................................................................................................ 38

Drive Shaft & Attachment Belt .............................................................................................................. 40

Main Deck Belt, Pulleys, & Belt Tensioner ...........................................................................................42

Single Spindle Belts, Pulleys, & Tensioners ......................................................................................... 44

Spindles & Blades ................................................................................................................................46

Top Deck Covers .................................................................................................................................. 48

70.8203 Hydraulic Flip Up Kit ...............................................................................................................50

WARRANTY PAGE 52

SERVICE (Continued)

Introduction - 5

INTRODUCTION

Product Description

Accessories

Item Description

Part Number

Hydraulic Deck Flip Up Kit 70.8203

Flat Free Tire/Wheel Assembly (requires 2 per mower) 53.0148

High Lift Mower Blades (requires 5 per mower) 79.0120

The MK960 mower is designed for the sole purpose of nish mowing. A high strength steel mower deck

and an all steel carrier frame combine to provide long lasting service. The MK960 features a full length rear

roller for even cutting and grass striping.

The MK960 features a 95 inch (241 cm) cutting width and seventeen cutting positions ranging from 1 inch

(25 mm) to 5 inches (127 mm).

The deck can be manually tilted to a near vertical position for cleaning, maintenance, or storage. An optional

hydraulic deck ip up kit uses the power unit hydraulic system to ip the deck up to the vertical position.

Why Do I Need an Operator’s Manual?

This manual has been created to help you gain the important knowledge of what is needed to safely

operate, maintain, and service your machine. It is divided into sections for convenient reference of the

appropriate section.

You must read and understand the operator’s manual for each piece of Ventrac equipment you own. Read-

ing the operator’s manual will help you become familiar with each specic piece of equipment. Under-

standing the operator’s manual will help you, as well as others, avoid personal injury and/or damage to the

equipment. Keep this manual with the machine at all times. The manual should remain with the machine

even if it is sold. If this manual becomes damaged or unreadable, it should be replaced immediately. Con-

tact your local Ventrac dealer for a replacement.

When using a Ventrac attachment, be sure to read and follow the safety and operating instructions of both

the power unit and the attachment being used to ensure the safest operation possible.

The information in this manual provides the operator with the safest procedures to operate the machine

while getting the maximum use out of the unit. Failure to follow the safety precautions listed in this manual

may result in personal injury and/or damage to the equipment.

enture Products Inc. is pleased to provide you with your new

Ventrac MK960 mower! We hope that Ventrac equipment will

provide you with a ONE Tractor Solution.

Listed below are just some of the items that can provide you

versatility as you use your MK960. Please visit our website, or

contact your authorized Ventrac dealer for a complete list of

items available for your new MK960 mower.

INTRODUCTION

Introduction - 6

Using Your Manual

Throughout this manual, you will encounter special messages and symbols that identify potential safety

concerns to help you as well as others avoid personal injury or damage to the equipment.

ATTENTION

This symbol identies potential health and

safety hazards. It marks safety precautions.

Your safety and the safety of others is involved.

SYMBOL DEFINITIONS

There are three signal words that describe the level of safety concern: Danger, Warning, and Caution.

Safety should always be the #1 priority when working on or operating equipment. Accidents are more likely

to occur when proper operating procedures are not followed or inexperienced operators are involved.

Note: Right-Hand and Left-Hand orientations may be referred to at dierent places throughout this manual.

Right-Hand and Left-Hand is determined as if facing forward from the operator station.

SIGNAL WORD DEFINITIONS

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation

which, if not avoided, could result in death or

serious injury.

Indicates an imminently hazardous situation

which, if not avoided, will result in death or

serious injury. This signal word is limited to the

most extreme cases.

Indicates a potentially hazardous situation

which, if not avoided, may result in minor or

moderate injury and/or property damage. It may

also be used to alert against unsafe practices.

Manual Glossary

Power Unit A Ventrac tractor or other Ventrac engine powered device that may be operated by itself or

with an attachment or accessory.

Attachment A piece of Ventrac equipment that requires a Power Unit for operation.

Accessory A device that attaches to a Power Unit or Attachment to extend its capabilities.

Machine Describes any “Attachment” or “Accessory” that is used in conjunction with a power unit.

Safety - 7

SAFETY

Safety Decals

The following safety decals must be maintained on your MK960 mower.

Keep all safety decals legible. Remove all grease, dirt, and debris from safety decals and instructional

labels. If any decals are faded, illegible, or missing, contact your dealer promptly for replacements.

When new components are installed, be sure that current safety decals are axed to the replacement

components.

SAFETY

Safety - 8

Decal Description Part Number Quantity

A Danger, Keep Hands & Feet Clear 00.0123 4

B Warning, Moving Parts 00.0216 1

C Warning, Read Owner’s Manual 00.0217 1

D Warning, Do Not Reach 00.0219 1

E Warning, General Safety 00.0220 1

F Danger, Thrown Object Hazard 00.0265 2

G Danger, Shield Missing 00.0492 3

H Danger, Pinching Hazard 00.0594 1

BB CC

SAFETY

Safety - 9

General Safety Procedures

for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories

Training Required

• The owner of this machine is solely responsible for properly training the operators.

• The owner/operator is solely responsible for the operation of this

machine and prevention of accidents or injuries occurring to him/her-

self, other people, or property.

• Do not allow operation or service by children or untrained personnel.

Local regulations may restrict the age of the operator.

• Before operating this machine, read the operator’s manual and under-

stand its contents.

• If the operator of the machine cannot understand this manual, then it

is the responsibility of this machine’s owner to fully explain the material

within this manual to the operator.

• Learn and understand the use of all controls.

• Know how to stop the power unit and all attachments quickly in the event of an emergency.

Personal Protective Equipment Requirements

It is the responsibility of the owner to be sure that the operators use the proper personal protective equip-

ment while operating the machine. Required personal protective equipment includes, but is not limited to,

the following list.

• Wear a certied ear protection device to prevent loss of hearing.

• Prevent eye injury by wearing safety glasses while operating the machine.

• Closed toe shoes must be worn at all times.

• Long pants must be worn at all times.

• When operating in dusty conditions, it is recommended that a dust mask be worn.

Operation Safety

• Inspect machine before operation. Repair or replace any damaged, worn, or missing parts. Be sure

guards and shields are in proper working condition and are secured in place. Make all necessary

adjustments before operating machine.

• Some pictures in this manual may show shields or covers opened or removed in order to clearly illustrate

any instructions. Under no circumstance should the machine be operated without these devices in place.

• Alterations or modications to this machine can reduce safety and could cause damage to the machine.

Do not alter safety devices or operate with shields or covers removed.

• Before each use, verify that all controls function properly and inspect all safety devices. Do not operate

if controls or safety devices are not in proper working condition.

• Check parking brake function before operating. Repair or adjust parking brake if necessary.

• Observe and follow all safety decals.

• All controls are to be operated from the operator’s station only.

• Always wear a seat belt if the machine has a roll cage/bar installed and in upright position.

• Ensure the attachment or accessory is locked or fastened securely to the power unit before operating.

• Ensure that all bystanders are clear of the power unit and attachment before operating. Stop machine if

someone enters your work area.

• Always be alert to what is happening around you, but do not lose focus on the task you are performing.

Always look in the direction the machine is moving.

• Look behind and down before backing up to be sure of a clear path.

• If you hit an object, stop and inspect the machine. Make all necessary repairs before operating machine again.

• Stop operation immediately at any sign of equipment failure. An unusual noise can be a warning of equipment

failure or a sign that maintenance is required. Make all necessary repairs before operating machine again.

SAFETY

Safety - 10

General Safety Procedures

for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories

• If equipped with a high/low range feature, never shift between high and low range while on a slope.

Always move the machine to level ground and engage the parking brake before shifting range.

• Do not leave machine unattended while it is running.

• Always park the machine on level ground.

• Always shut o engine when connecting attachment drive belt to the power unit.

• Never leave the operator’s station without lowering the attachment to the ground, setting the parking

brake, shutting o the engine, and removing the ignition key. Make sure all moving parts have come to

a complete stop before dismounting.

• Never leave equipment unattended without lowering the attachment to the ground, setting the parking

brake, shutting o the engine, and removing the ignition key.

• Only operate in well-lit conditions.

• Do not operate when there is a risk of lightning.

• Never direct the discharge of any attachment in the direction of people, buildings, animals, vehicles, or

other objects of value.

• Never discharge material against a wall or obstruction. Material may ricochet back towards the operator.

• Use extra caution when approaching blind corners, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may obscure vision.

• Do not run the engine in a building without adequate ventilation.

• Do not touch the engine or the muer while the engine is running or immediately after stopping the engine.

These areas may be hot enough to cause a burn.

• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating engine at excessive speed

may increase the hazard of personal injury.

• To reduce the hazard of re, keep the battery compartment, engine, and muer areas free of grass, leaves,

excessive grease, and other ammable materials.

Preventing Accidents

• Clear working area of objects that might be hit or thrown from machine.

• Keep people and pets out of working area.

• Know the work area well before operation. Do not operate where traction or

stability is questionable.

• Reduce speed when you are operating over rough ground.

• Equipment can cause serious injury and/or death when improperly used.

Before operating, know and understand

the operation and safety of the power

unit and the attachment being used.

• Do not operate machine if you are not in good physical and

mental health, if you will be distracted by personal devices, or are

under the inuence of any substance which might impair deci-

sion, dexterity, or judgment.

• Children are attracted to machine activity. Be aware of children

and do not allow them in the working area. Turn o the machine if

a child enters the work area.

Keep Riders O

• Only allow the operator on the power unit. Keep riders o.

• Never allow riders on any attachment or accessory.

Operation Safety (continued)

SAFETY

Safety - 11

General Safety Procedures

for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories

Operating On Slopes

• Slopes can cause loss-of-control and

tip-over accidents, which can result in

severe injury or death. Be familiar with the

emergency parking brake, along with the

power unit controls and their functions.

• If power unit is equipped with a fold down

roll bar, it must be locked in the upright

position when operating on any slope.

• Use low range (if equipped) when operating

on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

• Do not stop or start suddenly when operating on slopes.

• Never shift between high and low range while on a slope. Always move the power unit to level ground

and engage the parking brake before shifting range or placing the power unit in neutral.

• Variables such as wet surface and loose ground will reduce the degree of safety. Do not drive where

machine could lose traction or tip over.

• Keep alert for hidden hazards in the terrain.

• Stay away from drop-os, ditches, and embankments.

• Sharp turns should be avoided when operating on slopes.

• Pulling loads on hills decreases safety. It is the responsibility of the owner/operator to determine loads

that can safely be controlled on slopes.

• Transport machine with attachment lowered or close to the ground to improve stability.

• While operating on slopes, drive in an up and down direction when possible. If turning is necessary

while driving across slopes, reduce speed and turn slowly in the downhill direction.

• Assure a sucient supply of fuel for continuous operation. A minimum of one-half tank of fuel is recommended.

Roadway Safety

• Operate with safety lights when operating on or near roadways.

• Obey all state and local laws concerning operation on roadways.

• Slow down and be careful of trac when operating near or crossing roadways. Stop before crossing

roads or sidewalks. Use care when approaching areas or objects that may obscure vision.

• If there is doubt of safety conditions, discontinue machine operation until a time when

operation can be performed safely.

• When operating near or on roadways, have a Slow Moving Vehicle Emblem clearly

displayed.

Truck Or Trailer Transport

• Use care when loading or unloading machine into a truck or trailer.

• Use full width ramps for loading machine into a truck or trailer.

• The parking brake is not sucient to lock the machine during transport. Always secure the power unit

and/or attachment to the transporting vehicle securely using straps, chains, cable, or ropes. Both front

and rear straps should be directed down and outward from the machine.

• Shut o fuel supply to power unit during transport on truck or trailer.

• If equipped, turn the battery disconnect switch to the O position to shut o electrical power.

SAFETY

Safety - 12

General Safety Procedures

for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories

Maintenance

• Keep all safety decals legible. Remove all grease dirt, and debris from safety decals and instructional labels.

• If any decals are faded, illegible, or missing, contact your dealer promptly for replacements.

• When new components are installed, be sure that current safety decals are axed to the replacement

components.

• If any component requires replacement, use only original Ventrac replacement parts.

• Always turn the battery disconnect to the O position or disconnect the battery before performing any

repairs. Disconnect the negative terminal rst and the positive terminal last. Reconnect the positive

terminal rst and the negative terminal last.

• Keep all bolts, nuts, screws, and other fasteners properly tightened.

• Always lower the attachment to the ground, engage parking brake, shut o engine, and remove the

ignition key. Make sure all moving parts have come to a complete stop before cleaning, inspection,

adjusting or repairing.

• If the power unit, attachment, or accessory requires repairs or adjustments not instructed in the operator’s

manual, the power unit, attachment, or accessory must be taken to an authorized Ventrac dealer for service.

• Never perform maintenance on the power unit and/or attachment if someone is in the operator’s station.

• Always use protective glasses when handling the battery.

• Check all fuel lines for tightness and wear on a regular basis. Tighten or repair them as needed.

• To reduce the hazard of re, keep the battery compartment, engine, and muer areas free of grass,

leaves, and excessive grease.

• Do not touch the engine, the muer, or other exhaust components while the engine is running or imme-

diately after stopping the engine. These areas may be hot enough to cause a burn.

• Allow the engine to cool before storing and do not store near an open ame.

• Do not change the engine governor settings or over-speed the engine. Operating engine at excessive

speed may increase the hazard of personal injury.

• Springs may contain stored energy. Use caution when disengaging or removing springs and/or spring

loaded components.

• An obstruction or blockage in a drive system or moving/rotating parts may cause a buildup of stored

energy. When the obstruction or blockage is removed, the drive system or moving/rotating parts may

move suddenly. Do not attempt to remove an obstruction or blockage with your hands. Keep hands,

feet, and clothing away from all power-driven parts.

• Dispose of all uids in accordance with local laws.

Fuel Safety

• To avoid personal injury or property damage, use extreme care in handling gasoline. Gaso-

line is extremely ammable and the vapors are explosive.

• Do not refuel machine while smoking or at a location near ames or sparks.

• Always refuel the machine outdoors.

• Do not store machine or fuel container indoors where fumes or fuel can reach an open

ame, spark, or pilot light.

• Only store fuel in an approved container. Keep out of reach of children.

• Never ll containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers

on the ground away from your vehicle before lling.

• Remove machine from the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not possible, refuel the

machine using a portable container, rather than from a fuel dispenser nozzle.

• Never remove fuel cap or add fuel with the engine running. Allow engine to cool before refueling.

• Never remove fuel cap while on a slope. Only remove when parked on a level surface.

• Replace all fuel tank and container caps securely.

SAFETY

Safety - 13

General Safety Procedures

for Ventrac Power Units, Attachments, & Accessories

• Do not overll fuel tank. Only ll to bottom of fuel neck, do not ll fuel neck full. Overlling of fuel tank could

result in engine ooding, fuel leakage from the tank, and/or damage to the emissions control system.

• If fuel is spilled, do not attempt to start the engine. Move the power unit away from the fuel spill and

avoid creating any source of ignition until fuel vapors have dissipated.

• If the fuel tank must be drained, it should be drained outdoors into an approved container.

• Dispose of all uids in accordance with local laws.

• Check all fuel lines for tightness and wear on a regular basis. Tighten or repair them as needed.

• The fuel system is equipped with a shut-o valve. Shut o the fuel when transporting the machine to

and from the job, when parking the machine indoors, or when servicing the fuel system.

Hydraulic Safety

• Make sure all hydraulic connections are tight and all hydraulic hoses and tubes are in good condition.

Repair any leaks and replace any damaged or deteriorated hoses or tubes before starting the machine.

• Hydraulic leaks can occur under high pressure. Hydraulic leaks require special care and attention.

• Use a piece of cardboard and a magnifying glass to locate sus-

pected hydraulic leaks.

• Keep body and hands away from pinhole leaks

or nozzles that eject high pressure hydraulic uid.

Hydraulic uid escaping under high pressure can

penetrate the skin causing serious injury, leading to

severe complications and/or secondary infections

if left untreated. If hydraulic uid is injected into the

skin, seek immediate medical attention no matter

how minor the injury appears.

• Hydraulic system may contain stored energy. Before performing maintenance or repairs on the hydraulic

system, remove attachments, engage parking brake, disengage weight transfer system (if equipped),

shut o engine, and remove ignition key. To relieve pressure on the auxiliary hydraulic system, shut o the

power unit engine and move the hydraulic control lever left and right before disconnecting the auxiliary

hydraulic quick couplers.

• Dispose of all uids in accordance with local laws.

Fuel Safety (continued)

SAFETY

Safety - 14

MK960 Safety Procedures

Cutting Unit Safety

• Rotating Blades: Contact with the rotating mower blades or other moving parts may cause

personal injury. Keep hands and feet away.

• Rotation of one blade may cause another blade to rotate.

• Thrown Object Hazard: Do not point discharge toward people, animals, or buildings when

operating. Never operate with the deectors removed.

• When not mowing, always shut o the PTO to stop the mower blades.

• Never raise the mower deck with the blades running.

Optional Hydraulic Flip Up Kit Safety

• Attachment hydraulic system may contain stored energy. Before performing maintenance or repairs on

the hydraulic system, the attachment’s auxiliary hydraulic hoses must be disconnected from the power

unit. Lower the attachment to the ground, shut o power unit engine, move the secondary S.D.L.A. lever

left and right to relieve auxiliary hydraulic pressure, and disconnect the auxiliary hydraulic quick couplers.

• Do not disconnect the auxiliary hydraulic hoses for the optional hydraulic ip up kit while the deck is in

the ip up (service) position.

Operation - 15

OPERATIONAL CONTROLS

Operational Control Locations

Use the following images to help identify the locations

of operational controls. The letter next to each control

can be referenced to the list that follows these images.

Height Adjustment Handles

B. Main Belt Tension Handle

C. Outer Belt Tension Springs

Height Adjustment Handles (A)

The height adjustment handles (A) are used to raise

or lower the mower deck and to lock the mower

deck at the desired cutting height. The right and left

adjustment handles must both be set to the same

height position. The cutting height position decals

list the adjustment handle positions and correspond-

ing cutting heights.

Main Belt Tension Handle (B)

The main belt tension handle (B) is used to release

or apply tension to the main deck belt. The main belt

tension handle must be released in order to ip the

deck up to the service position.

Remove the ball pin from the main belt tension

handle and rotate the handle 180 degrees to

release the belt tension.

Remove pinRemove pin

Rotate 180°Rotate 180°

Outer Belt Tension Springs (C)

The outer belt tension springs are used to release or

apply tension to the single spindle deck belts.

Primary SDLA Control Lever

Pull the power unit’s primary SDLA lever to the left

to raise the power unit front hitch and MK960 mower

deck. Push the lever to the right to lower the power

unit front hitch and mower deck. The control lever

must be in the oat (detent) position during opera-

tion of the mower. Float position is attained by push-

ing the lever to the right until the oat detent locks

the lever in place.

Secondary SDLA Control Lever

The power unit’s secondary SDLA control lever

controls the optional hydraulic deck ip up kit. Pull

the lever to the left to ip the deck up to the service

position. Push the lever to the right to lower the

deck back down to the operation position.

Weight Transfer

Terrain and ground conditions may aect the appro-

priate setting for the power unit’s weight transfer

system. In most cases, the weight transfer system

should be set from 3/4 to full capacity.

* Refer to power unit operator’s manual for operation of

power unit controls.

Operation - 16

GENERAL OPERATION

Daily Inspection

Always set the parking brake, shut o power

unit engine, remove the ignition key, and ensure

all moving parts have come to a complete stop

before inspecting components, or attempting

any repair or adjustment.

Park machine on a level surface, with the engine

shut o and all uids cold.

2. Perform a visual inspection of both the power unit

and the mower. Look for loose or missing hard-

ware, damaged components, or signs of wear.

3. If equipped, inspect hydraulic hoses and ttings

to ensure tight, leak free connections.

4. Inspect the drive belts and mower blades. Belts

should be in good condition. Blades should be

sharp and securely fastened. Service as required.

5. Ensure tires are inated to the correct pressure.

6. Inspect the power unit as instructed in the power

unit operator’s manual.

7. Test the power unit’s operator safety interlock

system*.

Attaching

1. Check to ensure both mower deck height adjust-

ment handles are set to position # 17.

2. Drive the power unit slowly forward into the hitch

arms of the mower deck. Align the lift arms of

the power unit with the mower hitch arms by

raising or lowering the front hitch and complete

the engagement.

3. Once completely engaged, close the front hitch

locking lever.*

4. Engage the parking brake* and shut o the

engine.

5. Place the attachment belt onto the PTO drive

pulley on the power unit. Ensure the belt is prop-

erly seated in each pulley.

6. Engage the PTO belt tensioner.

7. If mower deck is equipped with a hydraulic ip

up kit, wipe hose ends clean, and connect to

the power unit’s hydraulic quick couplers. If

equipped, connect the hoses and quick couplers

so the red indicators are paired together and the

yellow indicators are paired together.

8. Engage the power unit’s weight transfer system*.

Detaching

1. Park the power unit on a level surface and set

the parking brake.*

Attention

It is important to set the mower deck height adjust-

ment handles to position # 17 prior to detaching

the mower deck from the power unit. It is dicult

to adjust the mower deck height for reattachment

when the mower deck is detached.

Set both mower deck height adjustment handles

to position # 17.

3. Disengage the power unit’s weight transfer

system*.

4. Lower the mower deck to the ground.

5. Shut o power unit engine.

6. Disengage the PTO belt tensioner.

7. Remove the attachment belt from the PTO drive

pulley of the power unit.

8. If mower deck is equipped with a hydraulic ip

up kit, release hydraulic pressure by moving the

secondary SDLA lever to the left and right, then

disconnect the hydraulic quick couplers from the

power unit and store the hose ends in the holes

in the right hitch arm brace.

9. Disengage the front hitch locking lever.*

10. Restart power unit and slowly back away from

the mower deck. A side to side movement of the

steering wheel may aid in disengagement.

Mowing and Operating Procedure

Prior to operation, perform daily inspection and con-

rm the mower deck cutting height and the power

unit’s weight transfer system are set properly.

Inspect the mowing area and remove rocks, sticks,

and any other objects that could be thrown by the

machine or become entangled in the blades.

Lower the mower deck to the ground and place

the power unit’s primary SDLA lever in the oat

position by pushing it to the right until the detent

engages. The lever will stay in this position until

intentionally removed.

With the power unit engine running between 2,000

and 3,000 RPM, engage the PTO switch, then

adjust the throttle to the desired engine RPM.

Begin forward motion in the desired mowing path.

Avoid obstacles and remove debris as necessary.

* Refer to power unit operator’s manual for operation of

power unit controls.

GENERAL OPERATION

Operation - 17

When the edge of the mowing area is reached, turn

the power unit and mower around and align for the

next pass.

Mowing in a back and forth pattern, where each

mowing pass is made in the opposite direction of

the pass beside it, will create a stripe pattern in the

grass. The full length rear roller rolls the grass in the

direction of travel to further enhance the stripe eect.

Transport of Mower

Always disengage the power unit PTO before trans-

porting the mower deck.

Transport the mower deck with the power unit front

hitch and mower fully raised to reduce wear of the

equipment. Travel slowly when transporting over

undulating or rough surfaces to maintain control of

the power unit and to reduce shock to the power

unit and mower deck.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Always set the parking brake, shut o power

unit engine, remove the ignition key, and ensure

all moving parts have come to a complete stop

before inspecting components, or attempting

any repair or adjustment.

Rotate the left height adjustment handle (A)

down slightly to relieve pressure on the locking

pin (B) and remove the pin from the handle.

Raise or lower the handle to the desired cutting

height setting and replace the locking pin.

3. Repeat steps 1 & 2 for right height adjustment

handle (C), making sure to set in the same posi-

tion as the left height adjustment handle.

Anti-Scalp Roller Position

The three anti-scalp rollers (A) on the mower deck

have an upper and lower mounting position. The

correct mounting position is dependent on the

selected cutting height. To prevent scalping, mount

all three rollers in the same recommended position.

If the height adjustment handles are set in position

# 3 or lower (1-1/2” or shorter), mount the rollers in

the upper mounting holes (B).

If the height adjustment handles are set in position #

4 or higher (1-3/4” or taller), mount the rollers in the

lower mounting holes (C).

Service - 18

SERVICE

Cleaning and General Maintenance

For best results, and to maintain the nish of the

mower deck, clean or wash the mower to remove

accumulated clippings, leaves, and dirt when the job

is nished. Refer to the Deck Flip-up Procedure to

access the underside of the deck.

If washing the mower deck, do not spray directly into

bearings or seals. After washing, it is important to run

the mower so that water does not reside on seals

or bearings for the drive system. When washing is

complete, return the deck to the operating position.

Move the power unit and mower to a clean, debris-

free location and activate the PTO for 30 seconds to

remove any standing water.

Deck Cover Removal and Installation

The left, center, and right deck covers all use the

same procedure for removal and installation.

NOTE: the center deck cover must be opened or

removed before the left and right deck covers can

be removed.

1. Unfasten the rubber handle that secures the

rear of the cover to the main deck.

2. Rotate the cover forward to open.

3. Pull the latch plate (A) away from the right hinge

point of the cover.

Step 3Step 3

Step 4Step 4

Step 5Step 5

4. Lift up the right side of the cover to clear the

latch plate.

5. Slide the cover to the right to remove the left

hinge pin from the hinge bracket.

6. To reinstall the cover, insert the

left hinge pin into the hole in the

hinge bracket.

7. Align the right hinge pin with the

slot in the hinge bracket and push

down until the latch plate snaps

over the pin to secure in place.

Deck Flip Up Procedure (Service Position)

Manual Flip Up Procedure

1. Park the power unit and mower on a smooth,

level surface.

2. Engage the parking brake, shut o the engine,

and remove the key from the ignition switch.

3. Place the right and left cutting height adjustment

handles into position # 1.

4. Remove the center deck cover.

5. Remove the ball pin from the main belt tension

handle and rotate the handle 180 degrees to

release the main deck belt tension.

6. Remove the two ball pins (A) from the left and

right hitch arm mounting brackets.

Start the power unit’s engine and raise the

power unit front hitch to its highest position.

8. Shut o the power unit’s engine and remove the

key from the ignition switch.

9. Lift the mower deck up to a near vertical position

and reinstall the two ball pins to lock the deck in

the upright position.

Reinstall ball Reinstall ball

pins to lock pins to lock

deck in placedeck in place

Always set the parking brake, shut o power

unit engine, remove the ignition key, and ensure

all moving parts have come to a complete stop

before inspecting components or attempting any

repair or adjustment.

Attention

If any component requires replacement, use only

original Ventrac replacement parts.

SERVICE

Service - 19

10. To return the deck to the operating position,

remove the two ball pins from the hitch arm

mounting brackets and lower the deck to the

operating position. NOTE: if the front hitch low-

ers due to hydraulic drift, it may be necessary

to start the power unit’s engine and raise the

mower deck before removing the ball pins.

11. Lower the mower deck to the ground.

12. Reinstall the two ball pins into the hitch arm

mounting brackets.

13. Ensure the belt is properly seated in the pulley

grooves, rotate the main belt tension handle 180

degrees to engage belt tension, and secure with

the ball pin.

14. Reinstall the center deck cover and secure with

the rubber handle.

Optional Hydraulic Flip Up Procedure

1. Park the power unit and mower on a smooth,

level surface.

2. Engage the parking brake, shut o the engine,

and remove the key from the ignition switch.

3. Place the right and left cutting height adjustment

handles into position # 1.

4. Open the center deck cover.

5. Remove the ball pin from the main belt tension

handle and rotate the handle 180 degrees to

release the main deck belt tension.

6. Remove the two ball pins (A) from the left and

right hitch arm mounting brackets.

Close the center deck cover but do not latch.

8. Return to the operator’s seat, start the power

unit’s engine, and raise the power unit front hitch

to its highest position.

9. Pull the secondary SDLA lever to the left and

hold until the deck stops moving at a near verti-

cal position.

10. Shut o the power unit’s engine and remove the

key from the ignition switch.

11. Open the center deck cover and reinstall the two

ball pins to lock the deck in the upright position.

12.

Reinstall ball Reinstall ball

pins to lock pins to lock

deck in placedeck in place

To return the deck to the operating position,

remove the two ball pins from the hitch arm

mounting brackets, return to the operator’s seat,

start the power unit’s engine, and lower the deck

to the operating position by pushing the second-

ary SDLA lever to the right. NOTE: if the front

hitch lowers due to hydraulic drift, it may be nec-

essary to start the power unit’s engine and raise

the mower deck before removing the ball pins.

13. Lower the mower deck to the ground.

14. Shut o the power unit’s engine and remove the

key from the ignition switch.

15. Open the center deck cover.

16. Reinstall the two ball pins into the hitch arm

mounting brackets.

17. Ensure the belt is properly seated in the pulley

grooves, rotate the main belt tension handle 180

degrees to engage belt tension, and secure with

the ball pin.

18. Close the center deck cover and secure with the

rubber handle.

SERVICE

Service - 20

Mower Blade Inspection/Replacement

CAUTION

Mower blades may be sharp. Always wear heavy

gloves when working with mower blades.

Flip the mower deck up to the service position.

2. Inspect the mower blades to ensure the cutting

edges are sharp. If blades are dull or damaged,

they must be removed and sharpened or replaced.

3. Place a short piece of 2 x 4 wood between the end

of the blade and an appropriate structural part of

the deck frame to prevent the blade from rotating.

4. Loosen the blade bolt counterclockwise and

remove the blade for sharpening or replacement.

5. When installing a blade, the wood block must be

placed on the opposite side of the blade to prevent

blade rotation when tightening the blade bolt.

6. Torque the blade bolt to 75-80 ft-lbs (102-108 Nm).

Mower Blade Sharpening

Blades should be sharpened and balanced by a

professional. Maintain balance, the same bevel, and

the length of sharpened surface.

Belt Inspection

Inspecting the drive belts of the mower can prevent

sudden belt failure by nding problems before they

cause a belt to break.

Typical wear

on a drive

belt may

result in the

conditions

shown in the

diagram. If

any of these

conditions

occur, the drive belt will require replacement.

Attachment Belt Replacement

1. Detach the mower deck from the power unit.

2. Remove the drive

pulley shield (A).

3. Remove the old

attachment drive belt

and install the new

belt onto the pulley.

4. Reinstall the drive

pulley shield.

Main Deck Belt Replacement

1. Detach the mower deck from the power unit.

2. Open the center, left, and right deck covers.

3. Remove the belt retainer bolt (A) from the left

idler pulley bracket.

Remove the ball pin from the main belt tension

handle and rotate the handle 180 degrees to

release the main deck belt tension.

5. Remove the belt from the belt tensioner pulley

and slide the loop of the belt over the end of the

left hitch arm so that the belt is looped around

the left hitch arm mounting brackets.

6. Remove the left hitch arm mounting bolt (B) and lift

the hitch arm up away from the mounting brackets.

7. Pull the belt out through the opening between

the hitch arm and the mounting brackets.

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Ventrac MK960 Owner's manual

Brand: Ventrac

Model: MK960

Category: Lawnmowers

Type: Owner's manual

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Ventrac MK960 Owner's manual

Ventrac MK960 Owner's manual

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